Natural Gas and Electricity News

November 30, 2023

NATURAL GAS
Natural gas rates have been going down and it appears that they will continue to do so. Therefore it is suggested that if you have NOPEC’s fixed gas rate of $4.49 or higher to call NOPEC at 855-667-3201 and switch to the variable rate. At the moment it is $3.53 but it looks like it will drop to between $2.95 and $3.00 somewhere around December 12th. On the other hand, if a variable rate makes you nervous stay with the fixed rate of $4.49. Switching to variable could possibly mean an average savings of around $25 a month this winter. I have no idea if NOPEC will lower the fixed rate. They have before.
Meanwhile, be aware that any time you make a change it happens only after a meter reading, not immediately. Many customers have a meter reading on the 6th of each month. You can tell by looking at “Date Prepared” at the top of the bill. The range of dates to the right is in case the Date Prepared date will be on a holiday or weekend. Stay warm.
Also you have heard that Dominion is requesting a rate increase of about $13 a month on their charges. The PUCO will probably grant something in between. Remember, there is nothing that can be done by you about their distribution charges. If this happens it probably won’t be until about 2025.
Between now and then there will be a lot of wrangling.
ELECTRICITY
On your Illuminating Co. bill look at the right lower side where you see NOPEC and the line below that begins with “Basic Charge.” If your rate is .0645 call NOPEC at 855-667-3201 and tell them to switch you to .065 cents per kilowatt hour. Yes, that’s higher but before the end of the year .0645 will go up.
As always, if you have questions call 440-526-2606.
Finally, when in doubt, always call Ted with questions. 440-526-2606.
The opinions expressed are those of Ted Lux and do not necessarily reflect those of Mayor Hruby or City Council.